Netflix

The company started by dethroning Blockbuster and mailing DVDs to users, but even that has been replaced by instant access via streaming video. This technology led to an incredible run for NFLX stock of nearly 450% from 2010 to mid-2011 that brought prices around $300, before changes to its pricing scheme and the Qwikster debacle knocked it off its perch. However, NFLX is back on the rise again, up 150% and sitting near $240.

Of course, Netflix is far from the only name in the on-demand game. Consumers no longer want to wait until 9 p.m. every Monday to watch their favorite show; they’d much rather watch it on their own terms. That’s why Amazon (AMZN) Prime offers streaming channels and movies, while Hulu Plus is a similar model.